Pros:
1. Low startup costs – If you already have some camping gear yourself, starting a camping supply store may require only minimal capital investment. You can often purchase inventory in bulk at wholesale prices, which helps reduce the overall cost of goods sold. Additionally, if you’re selling online, the costs of setting up a website and shipping supplies are fairly low.
2. Rewarding job – Selling camping gear is more than just a business – it’s an opportunity to help people really enjoy their outdoor experiences. You can provide your customers with useful tips and knowledge about different types of camping equipment, which gives them an extra level of confidence when they’re out in the wild.
3. Potential for high margins – Camping supplies can be expensive, so there is potential to make a good profit from selling items like tents, sleeping bags, backpacks and other camping gear.
Cons:
1. Low demand – Camping is not a year-round activity and demand for camping gear can vary greatly depending on the season. You’ll need to be prepared for the low periods when sales may be slower.
2. Limited customer base – Many people who enjoy camping are either hardcore enthusiasts or casual campers who purchase their equipment from big-box stores. This means that you’ll need to focus on providing a unique selection of camping gear and services if you want to attract customers who are willing to pay for quality products.
3. Repairs and returns – With any type of sporting or outdoor equipment, there is the potential for repairs and returns which can be time consuming and costly. You’ll need to make sure you have a policy in place to handle these types of requests.